The Dieback Working Group Inc is an Australian nonprofit organization dedicated to the management and awareness of Phytophthora Dieback, a destructive plant disease primarily affecting native vegetation in Western Australia. Established in 1996, the group was founded through a collaboration of local government authorities, community organizations, and state government land management agencies with a shared concern for combating the impacts of this disease.

Background

Phytophthora Dieback is caused by the pathogen Phytophthora cinnamomi, an introduced organism responsible for widespread damage to native plants, especially in southern Western Australia. It is one of over 140 Phytophthora species, but P. cinnamomi is noted for causing the most severe ecological consequences. Historically known as "dieback" or "jarrah dieback," these terms led to confusion with other tree decline causes such as drought or salinity. To clarify, the term "Phytophthora Dieback" is now used to specifically refer to this pathogen-induced disease affecting numerous native and introduced plant species[1].

Objectives and Structure

The Dieback Working Group (DWG) aims to:

• Increase awareness and improve management of Phytophthora Dieback among key stakeholders including government, industry, NGOs, and landholders.
• Serve as a knowledge hub and facilitate the development and dissemination of best practice management guidelines.
• Promote and encourage adoption of best practice policies for dieback management.
• Coordinate funding applications and foster partnerships to enhance disease control efforts[2][4].

The organization is governed by an Executive Committee and a Management Committee, supported by general members and project officers who lead specific initiatives and provide expertise on education, training, and on-ground management projects.

Activities and Services

DWG conducts a range of activities focused on reducing the spread and impact of Phytophthora Dieback:

• Training and Awareness: The group offers the Green Card Training (Dieback Biosecurity Awareness Training), recognized by Western Australian government authorities, to equip stakeholders with knowledge and skills to minimize disease transmission during field activities.
• Conferences and Events: DWG hosts the annual DIG Conference, presenting the latest research and management strategies related to Phytophthora Dieback and other ecosystem disease threats.
• Policy and Advocacy: The Management Committee contributes to policy consultation, legislative commentary, and the development of management plans aimed at controlling dieback risks.
• Partnerships and Projects: DWG collaborates with government departments, utilities, training organizations, and community groups to implement practical dieback treatment and prevention measures[1][2][5].

Significance

Phytophthora Dieback poses a critical threat to biodiversity in Western Australia’s unique ecosystems. Through its coordinated approach involving education, research support, and stakeholder engagement, the Dieback Working Group plays a central role in preserving natural habitats and promoting sustainable land management practices.

This article reflects information about the Dieback Working Group Inc as a key Australian organization combating Phytophthora Dieback, focusing on awareness, best practice management, and collaborative efforts to protect native flora.

[1] https://www.dwg.org.au [2] https://www.dwg.org.au/about-dwg/about-dieback-working-group/ [3] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/0355329a-3aaf-e811-a963-000d3ad24077/profile [4] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/0355329a-3aaf-e811-a963-000d3ad24077/documents/055097b1-f9e9-eb11-bacb-000d3acc5db6 [5] http://www.dbca.wa.gov.au/management/threat-management/plant-diseases/phytophthora-dieback/research-and-collaboration